[Alex3917]

If you're interested in the 'cracks' with regards to NDEs, definitely read The Spirit Molecule by Rick Strassman. That book, along with a few Terence McKenna lectures, will destroy any last vestiges of a materialistic worldview.

(To learn more about Terence McKenna, start with these:

http://www.matrixmasters.net/salon/?p=254 (also part 2 and 3)

http://www.matrixmasters.net/blogs/?p=297)

[aswanson]

It's always healthy to be versed with the opposing viewpoint, so I'd suggest reading How the Mind Works by Steven Pinker for a well articulated and evidenced materialistic thesis.

[Alex3917]

Does it actually attempt to explain qualia though?

[aswanson]

It takes steps towards doing so mechanistically, but it's silent where there aren't any answers in that area yet.

[naveensundar]

Thanks! Look forward to reading it. Your other comment on matter capturing consciousness is interesting and insightful.